How to Write a Professional Novel

Writing a novel can be challenging but rewarding in the end.

Writing a novel is a creative and rewarding process. A professionally-written novel brings characters to life giving the reader the ability to relate to them. The genre, plot and characters all work together to create a memorable story. The process of writing a professional novel can be daunting and challenging. Taking the time to strategize before writing by deciding key factors will help in the writing process. With a little persistence, the end result will be worthwhile.

Instructions

1. Decide what genre you will write in. Will it be a mystery or love story? Deciding what the theme of the story is will help in creating plots for the story.

2. Decide on a plot for your story. Ideas can be found all around you such as on the television, in the grocery story, in the local newspaper or from your own experiences.

3. Develop characters around the plot. Make the characters memorable by bringing them to life. Write the names of each character. Below their names, add their characteristics, attitudes and backgrounds to give them a personality.

4. Decide what point of view the story will be told from. First-person narrative is when the main character tells the story from the "I" point of view. Third-person narrative follows more than one character, but is most often confined to only one character's point of view.

5. Create an atmosphere by describing where the story takes place. This will give readers an image when they read where the characters live and work.

6. Create a timeline for the story. Write down the beginning, middle and end of the story. This will provide direction for the story.

7. Revise and edit the story when completed. Do not be afraid to make changes if it enhances the story.

8. Do not include any content in the story that will make readers want to skip reading. Put yourself in the readers’ position. Is there something you would skip over? If so, it is best to leave it out.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use the word "said" when writing dialogue. Anything else such as stated, screamed, or huffed can distract the flow for the reader.

References

• Evanovich, J (2006). How I Write: Secrets of a Bestselling Author. St. Martin’s Griffin.
• Guardian. 10 Rules for Writing Fiction.